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The identity of a cherished French Quarter tradition

Terry White and Ralph Brennan have owned the landmark pink building at 417 Royal Street for the past several months. Today, Wednesday July 9 2014, the court allowed the proprietors to reclaim the final piece of the foundation that the restaurant was built upon by purchasing ownership of the name Brennan's. Soon the recognizable designation will be affixed back on to the façade of the birthplace of the Brennan family business.

This is where Ralph, the patriarch and co-proprietor was introduced to the industry, gleefully exploring the bustling restaurant as his aunts Adelaide and Ella frequently diverted him from doing his homework after school in a banquet room to venture out into the front and back of house as they tended to the establishment. The sentimental value that Brennan's ingrained in Ralph from the childhood memories of his youth is impossible to put a price on today. While Terry does not have the family connection, he does have his recollection of many celebrated brunches and dinners at the legendary institution in the days before he could even catch his first Mardi Gras bead. Now, Terry and Ralph will continue to get on with the business of unlocking the doors of Brennan's once again.

Come this Fall 2014, Brennan's will honor the preceding atmosphere, but with a complete and stylish renovation - and respect the former menu, but with the creative energy of executive chef Slade Rushing in the kitchen. One thing's for sure: Brennan's has found its home again.

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